The extension of the Home Renovation Incentive (HRI) is a great opportunity for private homeowners to breathe new life into their properties, says Bert Galbraith of Galbraith Construction.

The scheme, which was initially introduced in Budget 2014, was extended until December 2016 by Finance Minister Michael Noonan in the recent Budget.

Since its introduction the scheme has proven a great opportunity for homeowners to cut the cost of carrying out home improvements. The incentive has also been a lifeline for the construction industry.

Mr Galbraith said: "HRI will provide an income tax credit of 13.5 per cent for homeowners on home improvement expenditure of between €5,000 and €35,000 which will be a great benefit to anyone seeking to renovate their home.

"The scheme will only apply to registered builders with a tax clearance certificate - such as Galbraith Construction. We would welcome anyone intending to renovate their property to get in touch with us and we’ll guide them through the process.”

He added: “The extension of the scheme is very welcome indeed for the construction sector in Ireland and will create employment in our industry."